Costco is renowned for its exceptional food offerings, making it a go-to destination for food lovers everywhere. Where else can you snag a delicious rotisserie chicken for just $4.99? Their bakery section is a treasure trove of some of the finest pastries around, including the irresistible lemon blueberry loaf. However, it’s the food court that often steals the show with its mouth-watering selections.
Among the favorites are the fluffy, cheesy slices of pizza and the rich, savory chicken bake that’s nothing short of decadent. The double chocolate chunk cookie is another delight that could easily inspire pages of adoration. Yet, the star of the show is undeniably the $1.50 hot dog combo, a legendary offering that’s as famous as Costco itself.
The story behind Costco’s hot dog is as fascinating as the company’s history. Available at Costco locations worldwide, the hot dog and soda combo is a testament to the brand’s commitment to value, but not everyone is aware of its origins. We’ve delved into some of the most captivating facts and anecdotes about the Costco hot dog, enhancing the allure of this beloved combo.
Introduced in 1984, just a year after Costco’s official opening, the hot dog initially made its debut from a humble sidewalk food cart. The first sale took place at what is now Costco location 401, back when it was a Price Club. That same year, a vendor known affectionately as “Warm Wonderful Gene” began selling hot dogs outside Costco’s Portland warehouse, a move that was quickly embraced by the brand’s co-founders.
Initially, Costco relied on Hebrew National as its primary hot dog supplier, a partnership that lasted for nearly 25 years. However, as the kosher hot dog market began to shrink and prices rose, Costco made the pivotal decision to produce its own franks. Today, several Costco-owned meat processing facilities supply the warehouses with hot dogs, hamburgers, and other Kirkland brand meat products, ensuring both quality and affordability.
The $1.50 hot dog combo has defied inflation since its price was set in 1985, a testament to Costco’s dedication to affordability. This commitment is so profound that when a suggestion was made to increase the price, Costco’s co-founder and CEO, Jim Sinegal, famously responded with a stern warning against such a move.
The transition from Hebrew National to Kirkland hot dogs was met with skepticism, but the switch brought about several benefits, including larger portion sizes. Kirkland hot dogs are now 10% heavier and longer than the original quarter-pound franks, made from 100% beef that’s USDA Choice or better. Additionally, the portion size of the accompanying soda has increased from a 12-ounce can to a 20-ounce fountain drink with free refills.
While the hot dogs are produced in-house, the buns come from third-party vendors and may vary depending on the location. Some are scored, others are topped with sesame seeds, but all are guaranteed to be fresh. It’s worth noting that not all Costco hot dogs are all beef; in some international locations, pork hot dogs are the norm.
Toppings also vary by location. In the U.S., classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, and relish are staples, while international Costcos offer unique toppings, from crispy fried onions in Iceland to pickled jalapeños in Mexico.
Even culinary legends like Julia Child have expressed their fondness for Costco’s hot dog combo, highlighting its universal appeal. Whether it’s the quality, the value, or the sheer delight of the food, Costco’s food court, particularly its hot dog combo, continues to be a beloved institution for food enthusiasts everywhere.